Are you having a difficult time finding a job that pays enough to support your family? Have you been looking for work for an extended period without success? Do you feel trapped in a job that does not offer any challenges or satisfaction? Do you have some unique ideas, talents or skills that you feel are being wasted? If the answer to these questions is “Yes,” it may be time to consider starting your own business.
Many women reject the desire to become an entrepreneur because they do not have the necessary savings to get started, but funding is available for many enterprises if you just know where to find it. The following sources have helped many women establish successful businesses, and they may be able to help you also:
Women’s Financial Fund
This organization offers grants to new start-up businesses and to those in need of money for further expansion in existing businesses. The grants given are between $100 and $5000, depending on which type of grant is needed, and focus on the needs of women trying to begin or expand a business related to the service industry, the internet, or marketing. United States citizens who have contributed at least $15 to organizations financial fund are qualified to apply and do not have to pay any further fees for application.
Huggies Mom-Inspired Grant Program
The well-known diaper maker offers African-American women the funding to get a new business started if the new adventure concerns products that would be helpful to mothers or their babies. If you have developed an ingenious product that fits into this category, Huggies wants to see your business plan and hear your ideas. This is a competitive grant program which awards $15000 so a clearly defined market and creativity do matter.
Halsted Bead Incorporated
This company offers a grant worth up to $6000 to women who have plans to start a business in jewelry design. The details of this annual grant change slightly from year to year, but this year’s grant focuses on professional jewelry designers in the United States who wish to market their brand of silver jewelry regionally.
WomensNet.Net
Through the Amber Grant Foundation program of this organization, women can receive from $500 to $1000 to open a business that lets them work from home or one that is internet-based. Women who have a great idea and are willing to work hard to achieve their goals can get help through this foundation, but they must also be willing to pay the funds forward to other needy women when their business becomes a success.
These opportunities for funding have been ongoing for several years, but many other organizations periodically offer grants, prizes, or scholarships for small business development. The best way to find these is to do frequent internet searches or visit a local library for research. The local chamber of commerce or small business bureau may also have information about funding for new businesses. Women should never pay for information of this type because it is available without charge.
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written by: Jennifer Lewis
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